Discover Fredericton: A Family-Friendly Capital

Fredericton, the capital of New Brunswick, is a charming city nestled along the Saint John River. With its rich history, cultural attractions, and scenic river trails, it's an ideal destination for a family vacation.

The city's historic heart, dating back to when it was a British garrison, is lined with brick buildings and streets with names like "Prince" and "Queen." The area's English influence is a legacy of the Loyalists who settled here after the American Revolution. Learn more about this history at Kings Landing, a living history museum perfect for families.

Fredericton boasts a vibrant arts scene, with a renowned art museum, playhouse, music festivals, and a craft and design school. The city is also dotted with cafes, restaurants, and parks, making it a great place to unwind.

For more on what to see and do, check out the top tourist attractions in Fredericton and find accommodations at Where to Stay in Fredericton.

1. Officers' Square and the Garrison District

At the heart of the Garrison District is Officers' Square, where you can enjoy daily Changing of the Guard ceremonies, summer concerts, and theater performances by the Calithumpians. The district also houses the Fredericton Region Museum and the New Brunswick College of Craft and Design. Don't miss the Garrison Night Market on Thursdays during summer.

Address: Queen Street, Fredericton

2. Boyce Farmers Market

Boyce Farmers Market, a hub for local crafts and regional foods, is bustling with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handcrafted goods. Enjoy breakfast at the café or grab lunch from food trucks and relax at the outdoor picnic tables.

Address: Brunswick Street, Fredericton, New Brunswick

Official site: http://frederictonfarmersmarket.ca/

3. Beaverbrook Art Gallery

The Beaverbrook Art Gallery, founded with a donation from Lord Beaverbrook, features over 3,000 works, including a significant British collection and Canadian, Atlantic Region, and international art. The gallery's highlight is Salvador Dali's Santiago el Grande.

Address: 703 Queen Street, Fredericton, New Brunswick

Official site: https://beaverbrookartgallery.org

4. Kings Landing

Kings Landing, a museum village north of Fredericton, offers a glimpse into the lives of Loyalist settlers. Interactive programs and historical tradesmen demonstrations make it an engaging experience for all ages.

Address: 5804 Route 102, Prince William, New Brunswick

Official site: http://kingslanding.nb.ca

5. Arts and Culture Scene

Fredericton's cultural landscape is rich with festivals, including the New Brunswick Summer Music Festival and the Harvest Jazz & Blues Festival. The Playhouse, a 700-seat venue, offers a variety of performances year-round.

6. Government House

Government House, the residence of the Lieutenant Governor, is a Georgian-style building and a National Historic Site. It's open for tours in the summer, showcasing elegant rooms and historical significance.

Address: Woodstock Road, Fredericton, New Brunswick

7. Odell Park and Fredericton Botanic Gardens

Odell Park offers 16 kilometers of trails through old-growth forest, while the Fredericton Botanic Gardens feature perennial beds, woodland trails, and outdoor sculptures.

Address: 694 Prospect Street, Fredericton, New Brunswick

Official site: www.frederictonbotanicgarden.com

8. Christ Church Cathedral

Christ Church Cathedral, a Neo-Gothic Anglican church, is known for its stained glass East Window and marble effigy of Bishop Medley.

Address: 168 Church Street, Fredericton, New Brunswick

Official site: https://cccath.ca/

9. Legislative Assembly Building

Home to the New Brunswick legislature, this building features a spiral staircase, legislative chamber, and a library with Audubon's engravings.

Address: 706 Queen Street, Fredericton, New Brunswick

10. Kayaking on the Saint John River

Kayaking is a popular activity on the Saint John River, with rentals available at Oromocto and Gagetown Marina.

11. Bicycling in Fredericton

Fredericton's trail system offers over 120 kilometers of paths, including the Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge, part of the Trans-Canada trail.

Official site: www.frederictontrailscoalition.com

12. Science East Science Centre

Science East Science Centre engages kids with over 150 hands-on exhibits, including a former county jail that now hosts forensic science displays.

Address: 668 Brunswick Street, Fredericton, New Brunswick

Official site: https://scienceeast.nb.ca/

13. Gagetown

Gagetown, a scenic town south of Fredericton, is home to artists and craftspeople, with a marina and the Queen's County Museum.

Where to Stay in Fredericton for Sightseeing

For accommodations, consider the river-view Delta Hotels by Marriott Fredericton, the family-friendly Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Fredericton, or the Holiday Inn Express & Suites near attractions. Budget options include Comfort Inn Fredericton and Fredericton Inn. For a more intimate stay, try the luxurious Quartermain House B&B or the Victorian Carriage House Inn.